THE Budget 2024 tax hike on sugary drinks is a responsible and necessary government public health policy.
A recent National Health Institute survey, disappointingly, revealed that our sugar consumption is one of the highest in the world with one in five Malaysians a diabetic.
The modest 10 sen increase to 50 sen per litre, in the excise duty rate for sugary drinks should see a change in consumer and manufacturing attitudes, and encourage a reduction in sugar consumption and content, respectively.
In short, a tax on sugary drinks saves lives and helps create healthier Malaysians.
Currently, at least 85 countries implement some type of tax on sugary drinks.
World Health Organisation evidence shows that implementing taxes on sugary drinks effectively reduces demand and purchases, and also encourages companies to reformulate their products to reduce sugar content.
As part of good governance, the government should also heed the Malaysian Medical Association’s call for transparency in the amount channelled, from the sugar tax, towards the treatment of diabetes and support for dialysis.
Sze Loong Steve Ngeow
Kajang
